Future Wars Will Be Multi-Domain, Tech-Driven: CDS Anil Chauhan
Published on: December 23, 2025
Introduction
The landscape of warfare is undergoing a significant transformation, as highlighted by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan during his address at Techfest 2025, held at the Indian Institute of Technology-Bombay (IIT-B). He emphasized that future conflicts will be fought across multiple domains, fundamentally altering the nature of military engagement.
Multi-Domain Warfare
General Chauhan pointed out that future wars will not be confined to traditional battlefields. Instead, they will encompass:
- Cyber Space
- Space
- The Electromagnetic Spectrum
- Cognitive Space
He noted that these domains are now integral to daily life, making them critical and contested arenas in modern warfare.
Convergence Warfare
During his speech, General Chauhan introduced the concept of “convergence warfare,” which he described as a new phase of military transformation. This approach is driven by advancements in several key technologies, including:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Robotics
- Quantum Computing
- Hypersonics
- Advanced Materials
- Data Analytics
These technologies are converging to blur the lines between kinetic and non-kinetic warfare, as well as contact and non-contact operations. The speed at which these changes are occurring is unprecedented.
The Political Context of Warfare
General Chauhan emphasized the intrinsic link between politics and warfare, stating that a nation’s political interests are paramount. He remarked that military actions are often subordinate to political decisions, particularly in democratic nations like India. He explained:
“If you look at conflicts across the globe, we find two paradoxical kinds of conflicts. First, there is an increased propensity to use military force to settle disputes.”
He cited examples from various regions, including Ukraine, Armenia, Syria, Iran, Gaza, Sudan, Africa, Thailand, and Cambodia, where military force has been employed to achieve political ends. However, he also noted the growing awareness of the destructive potential of modern warfare, which has led to a re-evaluation of how conflicts are approached.
Informal Wars and New Strategies
General Chauhan pointed out that the use of force is becoming more calibrated, leading to what he termed “informal wars” or “undeclared wars.” He referenced Russia’s categorization of such conflicts as “special operations.” In this evolving landscape, warfare will increasingly be influenced by:
- Cyber Operations
- Space Systems
- Information Warfare
- Cognitive Influence
He stressed that these new domains of warfare are characterized by quicker, shorter, and more intense engagements, where decisions must be made in minutes or even seconds.
The Role of Academic Institutions
In light of these developments, General Chauhan highlighted the critical role of academic institutions like IIT-Bombay in driving innovation in defense research and development. He urged that:
“Innovation in defence research and development must be led by academia, where young minds can challenge assumptions and convert ideas into future technologies.”
The three-day Techfest 2025 featured various exhibitions showcasing advancements in robotics, defense technologies, and space systems. These exhibitions included projects developed by IIT-Bombay students and faculty, alongside contributions from national and international participants.
New PhD Programs at IIT-Bombay
During the event, IIT-Bombay announced the introduction of four new PhD programs aimed at addressing key domains in technology and research:
- Defence Technology Research
- Traditional Indian Knowledge and Skills
- Medical Technology Research and Innovation
- Finance through the Motilal Oswal Centre for Capital Market Studies
The Centre for Defence Technology Innovations and Strategies (CDTIS) will focus on defense-related projects, while the Centre for Traditional Indian Knowledge and Skills (CTIKS) aims to bridge the gap between traditional knowledge and modern expertise.
Conclusion
The insights shared by General Anil Chauhan at Techfest 2025 underscore the rapidly evolving nature of warfare and the necessity for academic institutions to lead in innovation. As technology continues to shape the battlefield, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for future military strategies.
Note: The views expressed in this article are based on the statements made by General Anil Chauhan and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publication.
